Defensive boost arrives for Tottenham as Reguilon returns from loan

With the absences of Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero across many important fixtures, Spurs have felt the full force of their defensive gaps this season on more than one occasion.

While it certainly isn't the section of the back-line where Tottenham need the most help, Sergio Reguilon's return to North London could be a boost for the club.

Ange's current favorite for left-back remains the Italian international Destiny Udogie, a player who has flourished during his first season playing in Lilywhite. However, with suspensions and recurring injuries, the manager has been forced at times to play others out on the flank with less experience or aptitude for the position.

Right-back Emerson Royal has had to fill this role in the past, and while Ben Davies can slot into the wide position well, his absence from center-back would hurt Spurs given their extreme lack of depth at the spot.

Ryan Sessegnon and Ivan Perisic, two players who often found their way into Antonio Conte's left wing-back position, are still suffering from injury, meaning that Tottenham have been without a solid backup for Udogie for months.

The manager and fans will certainly be relieved to have the player back, that is, at least in a rotational capacity. While it's unfortunate at both the club and player levels that Reguilon's loan spell didn't last, United's choice to volunatrily let him go doesn't necessarily hurt Spurs either.

Tottenham face Burnley this Friday in the third round of the FA Cup, and if the Spaniard can make his way back to the English capital in time, he could find himself out on the pitch soon enough. That is, however, if the club see him as a part of their plans moving forward.

Reguilon has reportedly expressed that playing time remains his paramount interest, and because of that it could be very likely that he departs from English football altogether this month.

The player's market value currently stands at £8.67m according to Transfermarkt, and he could be leaving alongside a number of others.

Ideally, Spurs could negotiate a better deal in the range of £10m or more, or instead find a way to incorporate the player into the team's plans given the injury crisis, at least for the remainder of the season.

The reality of the situation, however, is such that Reguilon will likely leave this month unless Ange can find a place for him.